Geothermal greenhouse update at May 6 meeting

By Muriel EasonSpecial to The SUN

Kathy Keyes and Sally High of the Geothermal Greenhouse Partnership (GGP) will attend the Pagosa Springs Community Development Corporation monthly public meeting, Monday, May 6, at 5:30 p.m. at the Quality Resort to present a project overview, discuss project status and next steps. This is a continuation of a spring series on renewable energy — a future economic driver.

The Town of Pagosa Springs and much of Archuleta County sits on one of the largest geothermal aquifers in Colorado. Currently, the only use of this resource has been springs for soaking and for heating a few buildings downtown.

Keyes and High are two of the champions who have been actively advancing geothermal potential in the Pagosa Springs area. The GGP aims to:

1) Create a center for lifelong education as well as for advanced study in agriculture and renewable technology;

2) provide a test site for the commercialization of year-round organic crops at high altitude using renewable energy;

3) provide affordable, organic, locally-grown food for people and businesses; and

4) provide year-round community gardens.

Greenhouse domes are planned for Centennial Park on the banks of the San Juan River. This unique development downtown will become a visible attraction that will invite locals and visitors alike to pause, enjoy the natural setting, pursue environmental education, experience sustainable agriculture, and appreciate renewable energy technologies.

Learn more about the GGP and what it means for Pagosa at the May 6 meeting. The presentation will be followed by a community discussion and CDC project updates. Afterwards, there will be a casual reception allowing attendees to mix and mingle with the Pagosa Springs CDC board, members of the business community and interested citizens.